Pressure Situations

Young equestrians face tremendous pressure. Not only do they feel the need to perform up to their abilities, but they must cope with the ups-and-downs of their horses, as well as the potential for danger.

Missy Clark, head trainer and owner of North Run Show Stables, Warren, Vt., trains some of the nation's top young riders, including Lou Dobb's daughter, Hillary, Julie Welles, Hardin Towell Jr., Zazou Hoffman and Charlie and Hayle Jayne. The equestrians who are most able to cope with the sport's pressure understand the importance of experience, says Clark. They're also open to improving their "mental game."

This is true of all young athletes. To build confidence and cope with pressure, kids need to gain competence and understand the worries and pressures that undermine their performance.

"One of the best students I ever had wasn't the most naturally talented rider," says Clark. "She had a great work ethic, and her mind was like a sponge for sports psychology. She went so far with her riding, and had so many wonderful accomplishments. She could go in and compete and be 'on' and do it every time," says Clark.

Whether your young athletes are top-level riders, or beginning soccer players, they can learn how to cope with the "mental" pressures associated with their sports. Sports parents can help them. Begin by asking them to identify the pressures they face. They may feel intimidated by more experienced players. They may be afraid of failing. They may worry about what the coach, trainer or their parents think of their performance. In these cases, they're likely to pressure themselves. They might even worry about letting their parents or coach down or what a friend might say if they lose.

Next, help your young athletes identify what they should be focusing on. They should banish thoughts about the height and weight of other players, or how those around them are judging them. Instead, they need to focus on the next play, shot or basket. We help athletes identify the relevant performance cues to focus on during competition.

It takes more than a quick exchange to help athletes overcome these pressures, notes Clark. "You get through it with experience. You get out in the arena and compete. The more you do that, the more your fears dissipate and go away. You can't just have a conversation. The kids have to work through it."

That's why it's so important for kids to practice skills until they become routine, says Clark. "That, at the end of the day, is my philosophy. You have to have enough experience and mileage to feel confident." Kids also need to practice mental skills such as how to refocus when they are distracted in competition.

Once young athletes feel confident about their skills, they're more likely to trust in their own abilities. This allows them to play more instinctively and freely. That's an important goal. When kids trust in their abilities, they enjoy themselves more and are likely to be happier and successful in sports.

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